l went canoeing. Young and
Edwards, after conferring for one long, trying hour, determined on
settling the question.

Young was a pale, slight man, very homely except when he smiled. His
smile not only broke up the plainness of his face, but seemed to
chase away a serious shadow, allowing his kindly, gentle spirit to
shine through. He was nervous, and had a timid manner. Edwards was
his opposite, being a man of robust frame, with a heavy face, and a
manner that would have suggested self-confidence in another man.

They were true and tried friends.

"Dave, I couldn't ask her," said Young, trembling at the very
thought. "Besides, there's no hope for me. I know it. That's why I'm
afraid, why I don't want to ask her. What'd such a glorious creature
see in a poor, puny little thing like me?"

"George, you're not over-handsome," admitted Dave, shaking his head.
"But you can never tell about women. Sometimes they like even
little, insignificant fellows. Don't be too scared about asking her.
Besides, it will make it easier for me. You might tell her about
me--you know, sort of feel her out, so I'd---"

Dave's voice failed him here; but he had said enough, and that was
most discouraging to poor George. Dave was so busy screwing up his
courage that he forgot all about his friend.

"No; I couldn't," gasped George, falling into a chair. He was
ghastly pale. "I couldn't ask her to accept me, let alone do another
man's wooing. She thinks more of you. She'll accept you."

"You really think so?" whispered Dave, nervously.

"I know she will. You're such a fine, big figure of a man. She'll
take you, and I'll be glad. This fever and fretting has about
finished me. When she's yours I'll not be so bad. I'll be happy in
your happiness. But, Dave, you'll let me see her occasionally, won't
you? Go! Hurry--get it over!"

"Yes; we must have it over," replied Dave, getting up with a brave,
effort. Truly, if he carried that determined front to his lady-love
he would look like a masterful lover. But when he got to the door he
did not at all resemble a conqueror.

"You're sure she--cares for me?" asked Dave, for the hundredth time.
This time, as always, his friend was faithful and convincing.

"I know she does. Go--hurry. I tell you I can't stand this any
longer," cried George, pushing Dave out of the door.

"You won't go--first?" whispered Dave, clinging to the door.

"I won't go at all. I couldn't ask her--I don't want her--go! Get